JAMES McDONNELL has been rewarded for his strong start to the year with a one-year contract extension at Leeds Rhinos.
The back-rower was set to be out of contract at the end of this season but will now remain at AMT Headingley for 2026.
McDonnell came through the ranks at Wigan Warriors before joining Leeds ahead of the 2023 campaign.
While a regular starter throughout his Rhinos career, he has caught the eye this term with his work-rate – not to mention his four-try haul in their recent win at Salford Red Devils.
Leeds coach Brad Arthur said: “I think James has been defensively very strong for us.
“His team-mates recognise his defensive principles and efforts and it was nice to seem him get the rewards for that hard work with four tries over at Salford.
“He has got a bright future and I look forward to seeing him continue to develop over this season.”
McDonnell said: “It’s been a good start to the year, and I’m looking forward to staying longer now.”
The 25-year-old believes that his stamina and resilience to play full games have been his biggest recent improvements.
“As a back-rower, you challenge yourself to play big minutes,” said McDonnell.
“I want to be out there for the full game — I feel like I build into matches the longer I’m on the field.
“Over the last two years, I’ve developed the resilience to handle it, and I think I’ve progressed well at this level.
“My defensive effort is something I really judge my game on. Often times I’m doing the stuff that you wouldn’t really notice on TV, but I get a lot of plaudits from the lads.”
